Advent Candles: A Mark of Religious Devotion
Advent marks the beginning of the Church year, and the term "advent" is derived from the Latin word "adventur," meaning "arrival." An Advent season consists of four Sundays starting with the Sunday closest to November 30th. The celebration signifies Christ's threefold coming – past, present, and future. The color purple, signifying repentance and patience and the wreath consisting of a circle of evergreen branches set around four candles along with another in the centre bring about the flavor of typical season of Advent. As such the role of Advent candles is very important throughout this season of repentance and expectation.
The circle of the wreath is symbolic of God Himself who has no beginning or end. While the green stands for hope for renewal the candles symbolize the coming of God. The four outer candles symbolize the anticipation during the four Sundays of Advent.
The colors of the Advent candles vary with different Churches. Traditionally, three purple candles and one pink or rose candle are illuminated. Two purple candles are lit on the first Sunday and second Sunday of Advent. The cheery pink candle is meant for the third Sunday to signify the proximity of Lord. In addition to all these four candles, a taller white candle called the Christ candle is lit in the center on Christmas Eve and throughout the days of Christmas.
The first candle in the Advent wreath traditionally represents expectation and hope. This symbolizes people’s longing for a God sent new king who could save them from the bloodthirsty kings. The second candle signifies the value of patience that the Lord will again reveal Himself to the world. The third Pink or Rose candle symbolizes Joy at the nearness of Christ. However, in many Churches, the pink Advent candle is also lit on the fourth Sunday to celebrate the impending Nativity of Jesus.
The Christ Candle in the center is traditionally lighted on Christmas Eve or Day.
The season of Advent is celebrated in the home as well as at church. It sets the background for approaching Christmas and naturally the children are easily drawn to the activities relating to Advent. In the homes of devoted Christians, the Advent wreath is placed on the dining table. New candles are lit during the meals on Sundays. Thus Advent celebration becomes a happy excuse of family members to spend a religious time together.
If you're looking for Advent or other ceremonial candles, try HolyCandle.com, where they offer assorted Advent candles, unscented pillar candles, as well as lighters and snuffers.
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